In recent months, the Labor Package, known as Trabalho XXI, has sparked significant discussion and resistance in Portugal. The legislation aims to redefine labor relations and address worker precariousness. Despite its importance, it was notably absent from the electoral program of the ruling party, the AD.
Key Events and Timeline of Labor Package
The government initiated a working group to address the Labor Package, formalized on March 6, 2025, but operational since February 26. This move came shortly after the legislative elections.
Release of the Reform Proposal
In July 2025, after extensive discussions, the Ministry of Labor, Solidarity, and Social Security unveiled a dense reform document. This document quickly drew public scrutiny, particularly focusing on women’s workers’ rights.
Mobilization Against the Plan
As the implications of the Labor Package became clear, opposition grew. The CGTP-IN union began raising awareness about the potential risks associated with the new legislation. A public forum was held with key figures from the union, including Ana Pires and Rita Branco, to discuss the package’s effects on workers.
- September and October saw a significant escalation in public protests against the Labor Package.
- In early November, an estimated 100,000 individuals marched through Lisbon, uniting various labor groups and activists.
First General Strike in 12 Years
The growing discontent among workers led to the CGTP-IN initiating the first general strike since 2012, marking a historic collaboration with UGT, the second largest union federation in Portugal. This collaboration represented a significant solidarity among diverse sectors.
Protests and Unions’ Stance
In the buildup to the strike, various unions and social movements endorsed the action, highlighting the widespread discontent with the government’s proposal. The government attempted to downplay the significance of the protests, but the strong union solidarity highlighted the seriousness of worker grievances.
Concerns Over Labor Rights
Throughout November and December, critical discussions centered on multiple controversial aspects of the Labor Package. Concerns included:
- Potential reductions in salaries
- Irregularity of work hours and non-payment for overtime
- Elimination of severance pay for unjust dismissals
With these issues surfaced, awareness about labor rights became imperative leading up to the general strike on December 11, 2025.
Impact of the General Strike
The general strike led to more than 3 million workers participating, sending a powerful message against legislation perceived as threatening labor rights.
Ongoing Opposition and Next Steps
Although the extensive participation in the general strike clearly indicated public and worker opposition, some government officials and employers continued to diminish the importance of the protests. There remains considerable resistance within the workforce, leading to further planned demonstrations and mobilizations by the CGTP-IN in cities like Lisbon and Porto.
As the discourse surrounding the Labor Package continues to unfold, the demand for clearer representation of workers’ rights remains at the forefront. The CGTP-IN is set to host additional protests, maintaining pressure on the government to reconsider its approach to labor legislation.
